T Cell-Intrinsic and -Extrinsic Contributions of the IFNAR/STAT1-Axis to Thymocyte Survival
2011
The Role of STAT1 in Thymocyte Survival
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Moro Hiroshi, Otero Dennis C., Tanabe Yoshinari, David Michael
Primary Institution: University of California San Diego
Hypothesis
STAT1 might contribute to the events that govern the elimination of autoreactive T cells via negative selection.
Conclusion
STAT1 and type I interferons are essential for the survival and elimination of autoreactive T cells in the thymus.
Supporting Evidence
- STAT1-deficient mice showed impaired deletion of autoreactive T cells.
- Co-existence of wild-type T cells restored thymic elimination of self-reactive STAT1-deficient T cells.
- Bim expression was reduced in STAT1-deficient thymocytes.
Takeaway
This study shows that a protein called STAT1 helps get rid of bad T cells in the thymus, which is important for preventing autoimmune diseases.
Methodology
Mice lacking the IFNα/β-receptor or STAT1 were analyzed for thymocyte populations and their ability to undergo deletion.
Participant Demographics
Mice aged between 6 and 10 weeks.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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